The Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik, has issued a stern warning to members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Minna Branch, cautioning against the filing of frivolous petitions targeting judicial officers in the state.
Justice Abdulmalik delivered this message during the opening ceremony of the NBA Law Week held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna.
In her address, she acknowledged the prevalence of corruption allegations within the judiciary, emphasizing the importance of maintaining zero tolerance for any form of corruption. Justice Abdulmalik stressed the significance of upholding the integrity of the judiciary, as it is fundamental to the success of the justice system.
While corruption often involves illicit financial transactions, she reminded legal practitioners that it also encompasses acts such as neglecting to diligently prosecute cases on behalf of clients. She urged lawyers to adhere strictly to the ethical standards of the legal profession in their practice.
Furthermore, Justice Abdulmalik highlighted the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to ensure a conducive environment for the administration of justice in Niger State, despite financial constraints.
The chairman of the Minna Branch of the NBA, Mohammed Abdulkadir Waziri, echoed Justice Abdulmalik’s sentiments, emphasizing that judicial corruption poses a significant obstacle to the administration of justice across Nigeria. However, he cautioned against portraying the judiciary as exclusively serving the interests of the wealthy and influential in society.
The remarks from both Justice Abdulmalik and Waziri underscore the importance of upholding ethical standards within the legal profession and maintaining the integrity of the judiciary in promoting fair and impartial justice for all.
